Boulder Beer A Model In Sustainability

The craft beer industry in Colorado has grown exponentially over the past few years. There are now 284 breweries in the state, with 36 in Boulder County alone. While the industry is growing, Boulder Beer Company, the first craft brewery in Colorado and one of the oldest in the nation, is still going strong after nearly 40 years in the business. Boulder Beer Company is actually the oldest operating craft brewery that has opened since Prohibition. One of Boulder Beer’s core tenets, which has helped lead to their longevity and success, is their focus on sustainability.

Their efforts include a wide range of resource-conserving practices including:

Solar thermal used to heat all hot water used in the restaurant, kitchen, restrooms, and for hand sinks throughout the brewery.

Water saving faucets, toilets and spray devices.

Energy and water saving efforts and equipment for the brewing process.

Use all recycled or compostable “to go” containers and bags.

Recycle kitchen fryer-oil for bio-diesel.

Recycled content used for glass bottles and all packaging.

Eco-passes for all full-time employees.

Through their recycle and compost programs with Western Disposal, Boulder Beer has achieved a 70% diversion rate for the waste streams we collect. In addition, Boulder Beer donates spent grains and yeast from the brewing process to local farmers as feed. Combine these two efforts, and Boulder Beer is diverting almost 95% of their waste! According to Tess Mcfaddon, Boulder Beer’s Director of Marketing, “Boulder Beer Company prides itself on sustainability and appreciates the opportunity to work with Western Disposal to help divert our waste. We’re doing our part to save the planet, one beer at a time.”

Located at 2880 Wilderness Place in Boulder, Boulder Beer was started in 1979 by two University of Colorado astrophysics professors. Their operation now offers seven year-round brews and numerous rotating limited releases, with distribution to 32 states. In addition to the manufacturing brewery, they also operate a full service and newly remodeled Pub & Taproom onsite with a large outdoor patio. Check out the brand new menu featuring items from their new smoker!

Western Disposal would like to raise a toast to Boulder Beer not only for their nearly 40 years in business, but also for their commitment to sustainability and diversion.